Pepper2Dec 1, 2015

Jdouglas - Understood.... I can see where a card is very helpful for you :) Thanks so much for your input!!!

Pepper2Dec 1, 2015

Observant - Thanks for your input as well!! I know there must be a good / safe way to go about this. I know people who order stuff all the time and just use their debit or credit cards on line and have not had any issues doing so....but it's just not for me. For now I will just order online and use in-store pickup & pay....although it limits your variety quite a bit. I will let you know if I find a better answer...please do the same :)

jdouglas13Dec 1, 2015

Pepper, I'm sorry that Paypal won't work for you, but totally respect what does work for you re credit cards. We just have two that get paid off each month. Booking flights, rental cars, etc., is too difficult (for me) without a credit card, and with an ill, elderly parent, who is so far away, I need to be able to get on a flight at a moment's notice.

observantDec 1, 2015

PEPPER2 - I am also interested in a way to shop on line that does not compromise my credit cards or bank accounts > I do have a Paypal account and have been happy but very, very careful . I have had to file a couple of claims against sellers - Paypal took care of me immediately . I did buy an American Express gift card - it was not accepted at MOST on line sites (most websites require name on the card - you may b e able to get them to take it if you do it over the phone ) , I finally had to use a visa rewards card from my credit card to buy an Amazon gift card but now stuck shopping with it at amazon :( If you find an answer PLEASE PLEASE share ! Thanks !!

Pepper2Dec 1, 2015

Jdouglas - Thanks so much for your input on Paypal ! I don't think it is for me..as I gave up using credit cards years ago.I spend only what I can afford to spend and have a backup plan for emergencies (like car, major appliance, etc.) In today's economy it works pretty well for us...less stress than opening a lot of cc bills each month :)I guess I'll have to keep looking for an alternate way

jdouglas13Dec 1, 2015

Pepper, I can help a bit with Paypal, but I am no guru. Basically, you are going to give them your name, billing address, possibly a shipping address, and a credit card that you want them to bill. The idea is to prevent having to give you credit card number out all over the internet. You just go to paypal.com and sign up.

One recommendation I would give you, and this is JMHO, I only give out credit card numbers for major credit cards that have good customer service when something goes wrong. I NEVER EVER give out my debit card number. I think you have the option on Paypal to give them you debit card number, but I wouldn't.

You can use Paypal at many online retailers, but not all, so you may want to see in advance what works for you.

And, I'm typing as you just posted, but hopefully it is helpful.

Pepper2Dec 1, 2015

Thanks, but , nevermind....Everything I am seeing looks as though you still have to link it to a personal bank account....which I totally do not like to do.

I am just trying to find a 'safer' way to pay for larger purchases online. Suggestions???

Pepper2Dec 1, 2015

Question - Yes, it's me again with more questions :) I have been noticing that a lot of offers will credit to Paypal and that you seem to be able to make purchases using Paypal just as you would a prepaid card. It seems the logical choice for swagbucks as well...since you would be able to use it at multiple retailers....stop me when I am wrong. My first question is ..is this correct? My next question is how (in detail please) do you get a Paypal account...what personal info do you give...do swagbucks rewards and other rewards add to an existing account? All info will be appreciated as I do not understand how Paypal works :)( And yes, I already know I'm the only person left on this planet who does'nt know about Paypal ) Thanks in advance!

Faye Prosser -WRAL Smart ShopperDec 1, 2015

If anyone is looking for an easy way to donate a meal to a food bank recipient, Swagbucks is offering an option today (for Giving Tuesday) to donate 50 SB (equivalent of 50 cents) and the proceeds go towards providing an entire holiday meal through the Westside Food Bank that serves Western LA county in CA (where Swagbucks has their headquarters).

justinsmommu - great deal on the turkeys!

RFB - thanks for the Hello Fresh info. Let us know what you think.

RaleighFoodBloggerDec 1, 2015

Raesmom- It is an automatic renewal, but looks like you can either cancel or postpone your next delivery by the Wed. before your next box goes out. I did a bit more research and WOW, the calorie and fat content is HIGH in the meals! But, I'm still excited to give it a try, as I've been in a cooking rut lately. I'll check in and let you know how it went at the end of next week :)